Applications of Polyetherimide (PEI)

Automotive

PEI has been increasingly used in the automotive industry. This is due to its replacement with metal, thermosets, and bulk molding compounds (BMC). Electrical and lighting systems are the largest application areas for PEI. This is further followed by under-the-hood applications.
Used where high heat resistance, high strength and modulus, and broad chemical resistance are required.
Principal applications include transmission components, throttle bodies, and thermostat housings.
Used in electromechanical systems such as fuses, gears, bearings, solenoid bodies, ignition switches, and oil pump drives
Automotive lighting applications such as headlight reflectors, fog light reflectors, bezels, and light bulb sockets. PEI is selected for its high heat resistance (up to 200°C), ability to be metalized without a primer, and its competitive systems cost versus thermosets.

Electrical/electronic is the second most important market for Polyetherimide.
In the telecommunications market, there is an increasing need for high heat-resistant materials, especially for high-end connectors in the fiber optics segment. PEI resin offers great flow for thin wall design.
Other applications of polyetherimide include electrical switches and controls, motor parts, printed circuit boards, and connectors.
Polyetherimide is also used in so-called molded interconnect devices (MID). This is because of its unique plating capabilities. PEI allows the combination of electrical functions with the advantages of injection-molded and 3-D mechanical components.
To meet the ongoing needs for miniaturization, ceramic-filled polyetherimide grades have been developed. These grades have increased packing densities and are more lightweight carrier materials. They have excellent electrical and processing properties, and can also be easily metalized. They are suitable for applications such as circuit boards operating in the microwave range as well as internal aerials, el bectronic chips, and capacitors.

In aerospace applications, PEI is recommended for its lightweight and electrically conductive properties.
Suitable for EMI shielding, elevated thermal resistance, exceptional mechanical strength, etc.
It is used in jet engine components and sheeting of aircraft interiors.

PEI resins are suitable for both disposable and reusable medical devices and medical monitor probe housing. They are autoclavable, both chemical and lipid-resistant. They are available in both clear and opaque grades.
Polyetherimide can withstand dry heat sterilization at 180°C, ethylene oxide gas, and gamma radiation.
PEI finds extensive use in membrane applications. This is due to its separation, permeance, blood and tissue biocompatibility properties. Typical applications include membranes for biohybrid applications.
Other medical applications of PEI are surgical instrument handles and enclosures, non-implant prostheses, etc.

Polyetherimide is very often used as a metal replacement material. HVAC equipment and fluid handling systems are used in institutional kitchenware applications.
In household and domestic appliances, PEI is widely used in microwave cookware, steam and curling irons, and dual-ovenable trays for food packaging that meet FDA food packaging requirements.